NEIL SQUIRE SOCIETY 2016 - 2017 Annual Report Contents

3 Message from the Chair of the Board 5 Dr. Gary Birch at United Nations 6 Dr. Gary Birch at OECD Meeting 7 Cumberland House 9 Media Day 11 Community Knowledge Exchange 12 Dr. Gary Birch attends Accessible 13 Hands on with Google Analytics Webinar 13 AMI Inside: Ability Starts Here 14 Access Makeathon 16 #BCTech Summit and Monday Makeathon 18 Laurentia and Silviya: BC Christian Academy 20 Win-Win for Employer and Employee 21 A Fresh Perspective for Karen and Quyen 23 A Wonderful Opportunity for Braeden and Melissa 25 Working Together Helps Harvest House 27 Evan Finds Hope and a New Job 28 Bryon Puts His Life Back on Track 29 Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce 30 Rahul Finds Absolute Freedom 32 Ean Continues to Make a Difference 33 Lori Continues to Serve the Community 35 Lily Gets Comfortable on the Computer Again

Neil Squire Society — 30 Years Ago 36 Zorica Finds an Office Job The Neil Squire Society expanded across Canada in 1987, 37 Lorne's Story: A Computer Comfort Success setting up offices in BC, SK, ON, and NB, thanks to funding from the federal government ($3.4 million over 3 years). 37 Loving to Learn Again 38 Distance Computer Comfort Statistics The Neil Squire Society is committed to accessibility. If you would like 39 Footprints to Employment to receive this report in an alternative or paper format please contact us at: [email protected] 41 Government Funders 42 Major Donors 42 Donors 43 Statement of Financial Positions 45 Board and Committee Members 3 | ANNUAL REPORT

Message from the Chair of the Board

The 2016/17 year was another milestone year for have ever greater influence and impact. the Neil Squire Society. Our exceptional team met and/or exceeded virtually all our balanced scorecard Speaking of impact, another one of our continued goals that were set by the Board for the year. More successes this past year was with the LipSync importantly, and true to our Vision, the society project and Makers Making Change – this is truly an supported and made a positive impact serving over exciting opportunity that has growing potential and 3,700 people with disabilities, more than ever before the opportunity for even greater impact than we can in the history of the Society. Something we are very currently imagine. It’s one to watch! proud of. As noted previously, the number of People served Some highlights for the year... continues to show truly amazing results and The WTEEE Working Together program, which is something to be proud of. We will continue to funded by the Opportunities Fund, continues to look for opportunities to partner with likeminded perform very well. We are either on track or slightly organizations to better serve the (GTA) and ahead of track to meet our obligations by the end Quebec (Montreal) markets and we hope to make of the 3rd year. This success is a testament to the positive inroads in the next year. As many as 3,700 team who have continued to refine and improve people served is a new record for the Neil Squire the program over the years, but also an indication Society, and yet it is barely scraping the surface of the market need and opportunity the program is of the potential to serve people with disabilities in addressing. Canada.

Fundraising activities were again a priority this Once again Dr. Birch’s leadership continued to reach year with solid fundraising results particularly in far beyond the Society this year. He presented the government and corporate grants. Overall a keynote at the BC Professional Engineering development targets were exceeded despite our Association’s AGM and a keynote at the Nova Scotia Director of Development also leading the highly government’s annual conference in celebration of successful LipSync project. Money raised by the UN day of persons with disabilities. Dr. Birch the development office played a critical role in also remains very active on committees and specific providing the organization with the opportunity to consultations both provincially and federally. This pursue exciting and important initiatives as well past year in fact has been particularly busy with as significantly helping out the overall bottom line. the first phase of the new Federal Accessibility Act, Looking ahead, the addition of a new fundraiser, and the widespread public, and by invitation only, through the support of LIFT Philanthropy Partners, consultations that took place. He was also highly working specifically on non-government sources of engaged with the CRTC and Elections Canada. funding is a very exciting endeavor and we can’t wait Dr. Birch is truly Canada’s leading authority on to see how this might further enable the Society to accessible technology. 4 | ANNUAL REPORT

While there is still some uncertainty to the outcome partnerships, and good governance, ultimately the of some of the broader impacting government and true test of the Society’s success is in the people we industry partnerships we worked on this past year serve and the difference we make in their lives and such as the Federal Accessibility Act and CRTC/ those closes to them. As always I would encourage Telus Accessibility Gateway project, there is clearly you to check out some of the personal stories that great momentum building around Neil Squire being we have helped create over the past year. I am recognized as a catalyst for change in Canada and constantly inspired by these amazing stories of beyond. courage, innovation and dedicated support towards our Vision of Economic and Social Inclusiveness for As we look ahead we continue to see unprecedented all people with disabilities. technology change in our world. We are actively explore opportunities to partner with industry and Of course without the passion and dedication of our government on initiatives such as autonomous many employees and volunteers none of this would vehicle, smart cities, mobile devices, shared and/ be possible. On behalf of the Society I would like or autonomous transportation, smart devices to thank management, employees, our donors and such as e-wheelchairs, as well as exploring the all the volunteers for their amazing contributions ever increasing potential of digital connectedness that made this another great year at the Neil Squire through communications and social media. The Society. future is bright and the Neil Squire Society is well positioned to play an important role in creating a world of accessible technology.

Finally, at the Governance level, I am pleased to Drew Collier see the Board is highly engaged, we are seeing the Neil Squire Society, Board Chair 2016/17 benefits of our governance framework review, have a solid planning methodology and much improved risk assessment and management. Recently we also received good feedback through a review conducted by LIFT Philanthropy Partners that validated the work undertaken to improve Board/Management relations and governance. The year ahead will welcome in a new Board Chair and other fresh minds joining the Board and Advisory committees. Having renewed ideas and energy is exactly what the Board needs to maintain its momentum.

In summary... While we often talk in terms of balanced scorecards, programs, government grants/contracts, industry 5 | ANNUAL REPORT

Dr. Gary Birch Co-Chairs Roundtable 3 at the 9th Session of the Conference of State Parties at the United Nations

JUNE 13, 2016 — On June 13th, Neil Squire Society Executive Director, Dr. Gary Birch, co-chaired Roundtable 3: Enhancing accessibility to information and technology and inclusive development, at the 9th session of the Conference of States Parties (COSP) to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). Mr. Paweł Radomski, Deputy Permanent Representative of Poland to the United Nations co-chaired with Dr. Birch.

The conference took place from June 14-16, 2016 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, New York, and was held under the theme “Implementing the 2030 development agenda for all persons with disabilities: Leaving no one behind”. Dr. Birch was nominated by the Council of Canadians with Disabilities and selected by the Civil Society Coordination Mechanism, which comprises a number of organizations of persons with disabilities, NGOs, and other stakeholders. He represented civil society around the world at this Roundtable. 6 | ANNUAL REPORT

Dr. Gary Birch Participated in OECD Ministerial Meeting on the Digital Economy: Innovation, Growth and Social Prosperity

JUNE 20, 2016 — Dr. Gary Birch, Executive will improve the economic and social well-being Director of the Neil Squire Society was invited by The of people around the world. The OECD provides a Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, forum in which governments can work together to Science and Economic Development, to participate share experiences and seek solutions to common in the OECD Ministerial Meeting on the Digital problems. The 2016 Ministerial meeting builds on Economy: Innovation, Growth and Social Prosperity. two previous OECD Ministerial meetings on the The Ministerial meeting took place from June 21-23, digital economy and will mark another pivotal point 2016 in Cancun, Mexico. in the evolution of the digital economy, one in which the economy is in fact becoming fully digital. Minister Bains was one of five Vice-Chairs supporting Mexico as Chair. The OECD meeting provided an opportunity to gather with domestic and international colleagues to reinforce the importance of digital transformation, internet openness, and cyber resilience for economic growth and innovation.

Dr. Birch leads the work of the Society’s R&D group and is currently a member of no less than 14 active committees that have mandates from social inclusion to active professional standards organizations. This work goes towards helping governments, professional bodies and other agencies in their understanding of the needs of people with disabilities. Dr. Birch’s input is sought at every level and every sector in our economy and covers such areas as tax measures for people with disabilities; Elections Canada; federal labour market advisory boards; the BC Ministers Council on Employment and Accessibility; the BC Centre for Employment Excellence Steering Committee and many more.

The mission of the OECD is to promote policies that 7 | ANNUAL REPORT

Cumberland House Wins Award with Help from the Neil Squire Society

PHOTO COURTESY OF CUMBERLAND HOUSE MARKET GARDEN AND FARM FACEBOOK

JUNE 23, 2016 — In June, with the help of the Neil Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan Vaughn Squire Society’s Working Together program, the Solomon Schofield. Cumberland House Market Garden and Farm won a Regional Centre of Expertise sustainability award. Recently, the Market Garden hired eight persons with disabilities with the help of a wage subsidy from The award, which goes to projects that make the Working Together program. Saskatchewan a more sustainable place to live, was handed out at the 8th Annual Education for These employees are responsible for planting and Sustainable Development Recognition Awards by seeding, harvesting, and marketing of the produce.

The Market Garden, which sells its produce, helps offset the high cost of food in Northern Saskatchewan and produces healthier food options for locals, while promoting a self-sustainable community. Cumberland House is home LEFT: The garden before the Neil Squire to roughly 2,000 Aboriginal, Society-Cumberland Cree, and Metis people. House partnership. Operated since 2012, 8 | ANNUAL REPORT

PHOTO COURTESY OF CUMBERLAND HOUSE MARKET GARDEN AND FARM FACEBOOK the garden is known for its strawberry crops, and ABOVE: The garden after the has a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, Neil Squire Society-Cumberland from cantaloupes to tomatoes. This year, they are House partnership. planning on expanding their potato harvest.

However, the Market Garden isn’t the only program assisted by the Neil Squire Society in the community located nearly 450 km north of Saskatoon.

10 persons with disabilities have been hired in Cumberland House through Working Together for a new community beautification project. These employees will go around the community doing tasks including cleaning up yards, getting rid of hazardous materials, completing repairs, and painting houses for homeowners who provide paint. 9 | ANNUAL REPORT

Media Day: Workplace Accommodation and Open House

SEPTEMBER 15, 2016 — On September 15th, in support of September Disability Employment Month in , Surrey WorkBC and Neil Squire Society partnered together to provide an introduction to workplace accommodation and open house for members of the media. We were thrilled to be joined by Richard T. Lee, MLA for Burnaby North who received an overview of what an assistive technology assessement entails with our Occupational Therapists and Assistive Technology Specialists. 10 | ANNUAL REPORT

Media had a chance to speak one-to-one with occupational therapists and assistive technology specialists to find out what’s involved with an assistive technology assessment, how employers can benefit from hiring people with disabilities, and to learn all about the Neil Squire Society’s Technology@Work program. They also had the chance to speak to a Surrey WorkBC representative to learn about the breadth of free services available to employers and people with disabilities. 11 | ANNUAL REPORT

Community Knowledge Exchange

The goal of the CKX City Series is to spark fundamental shifts in how we build and share knowledge in the pursuit of social change.

NOVEMBER 17, 2016 — On Tuesday, November Chad spoke about connecting makers, student 22nd Neil Squire Society’s Director of Development, groups and other skilled volunteers to those in need, Chad Leaman, was one of seven speakers at the and to remove barriers to social inclusion. Community Knowledge Exchange (CKX) City Series: Chad had the opportunity to share the stage with the Vancouver at Science World. Vancouver Foundation, a community partner of the event, who have been tremendously supportive of Chad presented as one of seven “Shift Disturbers,” the Neil Squire Society’s efforts in British Columbia. people who are “more than just experts in their field Vancouver Foundation is helping us put not only the or talking heads behind a podium. They’re curious. LipSync into people’s lives, but also other emerging Innovative. Maybe even rebellious. Their ideas, work open source assistive technology hardware. They’re a and results are busting through the status quo and key supporter of our work and growing our outreach, leading to real change in their communities.” so we’re excited that Chad will be sharing the stage with them. 12 | ANNUAL REPORT

Gary Birch Attends Accessible Canada Consultation

NOVEMBER 28, 2016 — Neil Squire Society inclusion and participation of Canadians who have Executive Director, Gary Birch, attended the disabilities or functional limitations. Accessible Canada consultation at the Vancouver Convention Centre on November 26th. Gary spent Many Canadians continue to face barriers that affect the day listening to presentations and also provided their ability to participate in daily activities that most opening and closing comments. He had the pleasure people take for granted. of sitting next to The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities These could include:

• physical and architectural barriers that impede the ability to move freely in the built environment, use public transportation, access information or use technology; • attitudes, beliefs and misconceptions that some people may have about people with disabilities and what they can and cannot do; and • outdated policies and practices that do not take into account the varying abilities and disabilities that people may have.

In developing this new legislation, the Government of Canada is consulting Canadians both in person and online.

All Canadians are encouraged to take part in the Canadians, communities and workplaces benefit consultation process, either by attending an in- when everyone can participate equally in everyday person session or by participating in the online life. There has been much progress in making our consultation. For the most up-to-date information society more inclusive, but we can do better. on in-person venues and dates, and to participate online, please visit Canada.ca/Accessible-Canada. This is why the Government of Canada is committed to developing new planned accessibility legislation to promote equality of opportunity and increase the 13 | ANNUAL REPORT

Hands on with Google Analytics Webinar

NOVEMBER 28, 2016 — In November, Nina Cruz Program (YI), a national initiative by Innovation and Elena Czubiak from the Google for Nonprofits Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) team conducted a webinar on Google Analytics. The and funded through the Government of Canada’s webinar was coordinated by the Youth Internships Youth Employment Strategy (YES).

AMI Inside: Ability Starts Here

JANUARY 13, 2017 — In January, Executive service providers and the government. Director, Dr. Gary Birch was the keynote speaker at the Ability Starts Here symposium in Halifax, Nova Watch the Accessible Media Inc (AMI) Inside episode Scotia. The event, focused on inclusive education on the Ability Starts Here Symposium. Dr. Gary and employment, is designed to promote a more Birch’s talk “Innovative Technology – Taking a Fresh accessible culture by stimulating meaningful Perspective” starts at 9:15. dialogue between employers, educators, 14 | ANNUAL REPORT

Access Makeathon

JANUARY 27-29, 2017 — Inventors, Creators, knowledge and skills to address a real world need. Hackers, and Change Makers came together at our The goal was for each team to help a person leave hugely successful 48 hr Access Makeathon which the event with a working prototype that improves took place in Vancouver from January 27 – 29. their quality of life.

Over 48 hours, people with disabilities connected ABOVE: Makers busy prototyping and testing their with teams of makers who built open source assistive creations during the 48 hour event technologies that directly addressed their needs. It was an opportunity for makers to apply their 15 | ANNUAL REPORT

This event was organized in partnership with Rick Hansen Foundation, SFU’s School of Interactive Arts and Technology, Tech Soup, NetSquared, Tom Global, UBC Women in Engineering, and UBC Young Women in Engineering and Science. 16 | ANNUAL REPORT

#BCTECH Summit and Monday Makeathon

We had 12 groups making LipSyncs out of kits of supplies that we had assembled prior to the event; BELOW: The groups used our instruction booklets and supplied us with valuable feedback that we will use to improve our instructions.

MARCH 13-15, 2017 — On Monday, March 13th, we hosted the #BCTECH Summit pre-summit Monday Makeathon. 12 kits of supplies were handed out to groups of makers who attempted to build LipSyncs based on the instructions we provided — an assembly manual that is available on our GitHub page.

It was our first event where groups of makers focused on building LipSyncs, specifically to our instructions. It was a good trial run to see how easily makers could follow our instructions and build a LipSync.

By the end of the day — a four hour event — we had two LipSyncs fully completed, and the rest were nearly done. We received some great feedback on our instructions. 17 | ANNUAL REPORT

RIGHT: Our client Lorraine, took home a LipSync after the Monday Makeathon;

BELOW: Jim Ryan, the captain of the Wake Up Honey team at the Access Makeathon, modelling the LipSync on the Project Wearable Runway.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, at the #BCTECH Summit with over 5,000 people in attendance, we had a booth in the Innovators Corridor. We shared space with the winner of the Access Makeathon, the “Wake Up Honey” team, who used a modified LipSync device for their solution.

We got to show off the LipSync at the Project Wearable Runway — where a variety of innovators got to show off wearable technologies — near the closing of Wednesday’s activities.

Watch our new LipSync video: https://youtu.be/Aswl6QrCb7w 18 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

A New Light for Laurentia and Silviya at the BC Christian Academy

BURNABY, BC — The BC Christian Academy is a Burnaby, BC junior kindergarten to Grade 12 Interdenominational private school in the Greater Vancouver area, program, we were able to create two new positions to which draws students from the tri-cities area and help in the overflow of work and new duties,” shares throughout the Lower Mainland. They have 64 Rosie Shen, Business Administrator at the BC employees and have been operating since 1992. Christian Academy.

Laurentia has scoliosis of the spine. Throughout her childhood she attended medical gymnastics to strengthen her back muscles and found it didn’t bother her too much. However, after two pregnancies, she began to feel pain in her back and between her shoulders. She saw a specialist, but didn’t see any significant results. “The pain is there; it’s a diffuse pain which bothers me all the time,” says Laurentia. “I can’t make major moves, can’t stay long in a seat or standing [position], and can’t carry heavy things.”

Laurentia immigrated to Canada in 2014, but even with a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and experience working with children, she was having difficulties landing a job. “I think that was because I didn’t have experience here even though my studies were fully recognized here,” she explains. Despite this, Laurentia volunteered her time as a Settlement Worker with the Immigrant Service Society of BC, and as an event organizer for seniors at the Royal Crescent Garden in Maple Ridge. Recently, they started a new program and needed to hire some additional staff. Silviya has a hernia on her neck which affects her ability to balance. “I wasn’t able to drive for about “Through the [Neil Squire Society’s] Working Together three years to work or to do daily duties,” Silviya 19 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

notes. “I needed a lot of help from my parents. I wasn’t employees the time to train them. “No special able to do a lot of things by myself.” Silviya underwent accommodations were needed,” Says Rosie. “It has physiotherapy and received treatment which made been a pleasure working with the team at Neil Squire her feel better, but lifting heavy things causes her where they make the process of hiring someone fast neck pain. and efficient,” says Rosie. “They are very helpful and quick in responding to our needs, questions and With a degree in marketing and 15 years of challenges.” experience in that field, Silviya’s goal was to find a job that responded to her skills and experience. “This program is amazing and for me it fits perfectly. Silviya was a parent volunteer at the BC Christian I hope other people will benefit through this program, Academy for three years and it was through and I will recommend warmly to anyone,” says volunteering that she found out about the Neil Laurentia. Squire Society. “My life is very different now,” shares Silviya. “Serving The Society’s Program was the perfect fit for both in the school makes me so positive that I am serving women. For Laurentia, it offered her the opportunity people. This was the most important to me – to find a to gain the experience she needed in Canada. job where I can serve with my knowledge and skills and Through the program, Laurentia was hired as a help people.” Special Education Assistant where she provides assistance in supervision, care, and instruction of special needs students. This position has greatly increased her confidence “because I can use my skills and competences.”

Silviya now works as an Office Assistant at the school. She works in the marketing department, helping with events preparation, and assists with new student registration. “I feel very good here in the school. I’m positive about my job. I love the place, the school and the people here,” says Silviya. “I am working with a lot of passion.”

“Both candidates we hired are very strong in their organizational skills, which has been a great help to us,” explains Rosie. “They are quick in learning any task given to them and work fast and reliably.” Laurentia and Silviya had limited experience in their new positions; however the Working Together Program provided both the school and the new 20 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

A Win–Win for Employer and Employee

BURNABY, BC — The Neil Squire Society’s Working Burnaby, BC Together program has helped bring additional value to Cymax, a Canadian high tech e-commerce pain which increases with stress, but the skills Sherri furniture company. Cindy Martin, Director of People offered to contribute to the workforce far outweighed & Culture at Cymax, has become an advocate of her one barrier. hiring people with disabilities, “I am confident this is the beginning of a long business partnership between Sherri is a happy employee working at Cymax and Cymax and the Neil Squire Society.” is looking forward in growing within the company. “I would like to grow within Cymax. If I can get certificates At the beginning of the hiring process, Cymax or training that they need in Cymax, I would like to made it clear that the company’s mandate was to participate and go through the company. I really like only hire the best candidate for the job. Cymax the environment here and the people I am working recently hired Sherri through the Society’s Working with.” Together Program, who is now working as an Online Merchandising Associate. Sherri experiences back Cymax evaluated the collaboration with the Neil Squire Society as a smooth and seamless hiring process. Cindy expresses her delight with her new co-worker, “Sherri has been a wonderful addition to our team. She’s enthusiastic about her work, has excellent quality with minimal errors and also gets involved in some of our work social events as well. She’s been a great team member! It’s difficult to find enough qualified candidates to meet our recruiting needs.”

Cymax focuses on a person’s ability, not their disability, which is key to tapping into a hidden market of qualified job seekers. “One of the things we are struggling with is finding qualified skilled employees,” says Cindy. “Working with the Neil Squire Society helps us find talented people and fill our business needs.”

Cindy and Sherri recently shared their experience on Roundhouse Radio, listen to the interview here. 21 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

A Fresh Perspective for Karen and Quyen

OTTAWA, ON — Karen LeRoy, owner of Alta Vista , ON Flowers, brings a fresh perspective to the shop as she found her passion for the industry while at a originally introduced to Quyen through another crossroads in her own career. Having re-married in service provider, Performance Plus Rehabilitative 2004 to the shop’s owner, Karen decided to join the Care (PPRC), who are part of the Ottawa-based business as co-owner in 2005. Employment Accessibility Resource Network (EARN), along with the Neil Squire Society. EARN It was this fresh perspective that allowed Karen to brings employers and service providers together to hire Quyen as a floral assistant, whom she describes increase employment opportunities for people with as “lovely, hard-working, and organized.” Karen was disabilities. 22 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

PPRC recognized that collaborating with the Neil rental inventory to the company website. Quyen also Squire Society’s Working Together program would handles the majority of the wire service orders and create the perfect design for employment success. since taking this task on, “orders have been more Karen describes that once she saw that Quyen was streamlined and accurate.” accomplished in so many areas, she was convinced that she simply had to hire Quyen and “try it out.” Karen describes hiring Quyen as a “positive Quyen has Cerebral Palsy, and explains that the experience for all” on the team. The staff love Quyen most challenging part is the effect it has on her and the enrichment doesn’t end at closing time. speech and hearing. “As far as my ability to do things Quyen joins two other staff members for training though, it doesn’t affect me much.” Quyen is studying in Floral Design Basics twice weekly. This has lent accounting at Algonquin College and her goal was itself to comradery and an increase in the cohesion to find summer employment to save enough money of the team. The next social plans are underway, with to pay for her tuition. She is happy to report that the team coming together for guided meditation, she will continue to work part-time with Karen once vegetarian cuisine and a paint night with proceeds school starts again this fall. of the sales being donated to an education fund for a fellow staff member. Karen notes that the Working Together program allowed her to hire an “extra person that enables her Quyen describes her life as “busier” since obtaining to be prepared for orders,” and it has increased the her current position. While her plans for the future capacity of her business. Any fears about “things not are to secure full-time work in accounting, she has working out” quickly subsided as she could simply found a home at Alta Vista Flowers. Like Karen, pick up the phone and talk to the Working Together Quyen has found a new passion. Job Developer about how to best support Quyen.

There were no specific accommodations required. However, the employer already makes use of anti- fatigue mats, stools and height adjustable tables to offset standing for extended periods of time. Quyen shares that one of her favorite duties involves trimming the leaves and cleaning the flowers to make them last longer. “I’ve learned a lot about flowers and what they need. I didn’t know a lot about that before.”

“Quyen has added value to the business and the team culture,” says Karen. Quyen has recently contributed an article to the Alta Vista Wedding Flowers blog, and also manages the web content and recently photographed and uploaded images of the wedding 23 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

A Wonderful Opportunity for

Braeden and Melissa Penticton, BC

PENTICTON, BC — With the help of the Neil Squire SOWINS offers shelter and programs for women in Society’s Working Together program, the South crisis. Okanagan Women in Need Society (SOWINS) were able to grow their staff and get much needed work “Thanks to the Working Together wage subsidy we done that they wouldn’t have otherwise had the have been able to start the process of going paperless resources to do. by scanning all of our documents. Some of them go as far as the creation of the Society [. . .], and there’s Established in 1981, SOWINS is a non-profit always the risk of losing the information due to the organization that works to prevent the abuse of ink fading,” says SOWINS receptionist Veronica, women and children, raise awareness of the effects who supervised the employees. “Without the wage of abuses and works to support those overcoming subsidy, we wouldn’t have been able to hire someone the impacts of abuse. Serving the South Okanagan to complete this task.” region, an area covering roughly 4000 square miles, 24 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

For Melissa, who wants to be a teacher, it gave her much needed financial independence, affording her to buy a new phone. It also got her adjusted to the schedule of a regular workweek, preparing her for a future career.

“She has required very little supervision, and since she was already computer literate, she only needed to be shown how the scanner and system work,” says Veronica. “She’s a fast learner and dedicated.” Veronica “absolutely” recommends the Working Together program for other business looking for employees. With Working Together, SOWINS was able to give two capable students a wonderful opportunity. Braeden “We also feel very lucky to be able to give the and Melissa both have Autism, while Melissa also has opportunity to a person with disabilities to gain ADHD. employment experience and help [them] prepare for future employment opportunities.” For Braeden, it was his first paid job and he learned to work independently.

“Braeden has been a great asset to our organization and we feel very lucky to have the opportunity to have him working,” says Veronica. “Braeden is very focused and has an amazing attention to detail. He’s also very polite, punctual, confident and dependable. He required no supervision, and whenever he had a doubt, he would ask and make sure he had all the information necessary to continue working.” 25 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

Working Together Helps Harvest House Serve People with Addiction

and Mental Illness , NB

MONCTON, NB — When one defines “disability,” continuing to support them as they take on this new addictions and mental health issues are often challenge and next step in their journey. They were overlooked. The reality is that addictions and mental pleased that they have been able to help their clients health issues are illnesses that affect people’s build on their skill sets, add experience to their abilities and create barriers to employment. resumes and provide employment to clients who Harvest House is a non-profit agency in Moncton, may not be able to get a job elsewhere and who are that serves community members always appreciative of the opportunity. who struggle with drug and alcohol addictions, mental illness, anger issues and homelessness.

They have served the city of Moncton for over 19 years, growing to provide services such as an emergency shelter, a community center, and step- up housing. Harvest House has thirteen full time employees, six working part time, as well as three or four staff working on grants.

Harvest House has collaborated with the Neil Squire Society’s Working Together program in order to empower some of their clients who have availed of their services with much success. One thing that was missing from their lives was employment – something that is harder to achieve if you have a criminal record or if you don’t have permanent housing, in addition to addictions and/or mental health issues.

With the Working Together program, Harvest House was able to continue to work with these clients to develop skills related to employment, while 26 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

Additionally, because Harvest House is a non-profit renovations in the houses that provide safe, clean agency, having additional funds for employment and stable housing for 32 people in the community. allows them to use more funds towards services He is thankful that Neil Squire Society helped him to for our community — a benefit not only to those get a paid position doing what he loves. He finds it employed through Neil Squire Society, but to all who rewarding to see the results of his handy work and use Harvest House services. gets to work alongside his wife.

One such client to find success with Harvest House “Don’t give up,” says Bruce. “There are people in the and the Working Together program is Bruce. Bruce city that can help. Thank you Neil Squire.” participated in Harvest House’s Addictions Recovery program and lived in the Step-Up Housing. He also WORKING TOGETHER STATISTICS suffers from ongoing neck pain after breaking his neck in 2012 — something he is able to manage on his own. Bruce has always enjoyed working 607 with his hands and his work experience includes a PARTICIPANTS background in carpentry and maintenance work as well as mechanics and masonry. He had been unemployed and looking for work for eight months prior to his involvement with Harvest House.

Bruce began work by volunteering at Harvest House and later heard that there could be an opportunity for employment with the help of the Neil Squire 3 Society’s Working Together Program. Through the Working Together Program, Bruce has been 3 S employed as a Supervisor of the Step-Up housing program where he oversees maintenance work and 27 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

Evan Finds Hope and a New Job with Working Together

REGINA, SK — Evan had spent a lot of time Regina, SK bouncing around from one temporary position to another. The process was making him frustrated, and The situation was beginning to look hopeless when a he was feeling overwhelmed explaining to potential friend suggested that he visit the Neil Squire Society’s employers his accessibility needs. Despite a post- Prairie Regional Office in Regina, Saskatchewan. secondary diploma in Business Accounting, Evan just Evan did so, and immediately enrolled in the Working wasn’t finding anything that suited his needs. Together program.

Evan was born with spina bifida and uses a wheelchair. After he had received his diploma, he worked a couple of work terms as part of his education requirements.

Once he started working with a job developer, his opportunities began to open up. Evan constantly practiced his verbal and written communication skills when working with his job developer, through phone calls and emails. This helped him boost his self- confidence throughout the application process, and made him more optimistic in seeking employment.

Evan and his job developer continued to work to update his resume and cover letter to target his skills and qualifications to potential employers, while addressing various accommodations required for success. By the end of a few short months, Evan was employed by the Regina Housing Authority as a clerk.

“This is awesome. I have a professional resume and cover letter and I have learned to explain my accommodations more clearly,” exclaims Evan. “But best of all, I have a great new job and my future looks a whole lot brighter."

“The Working Together program is exactly what I needed to help me find a suitable employer.” 28 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

Byron Puts His Life “Back on Track” with the Working Together Program

REGINA, SK — At Carmichael Outreach, those Regina, SK struggling with addictions, poverty, health issues, homelessness and overwhelming life crisis are shown Neil Squire Society’s Working Together program. The that people care and are willing to help — hope is additional funds from the wage subsidy also allow given a space to grow. Carmichael to focus their services to others in need. Carmichael now routinely refers other potential It is already tough in a struggling market to find participants to the Neil Squire Society’s employment employment and it’s significantly more difficult services. when you face other barriers such as a criminal record, mental health issues and transitional “I’m so happy I came to Neil Squire. My life is back on housing. Carmichael Outreach, based in Regina, track,” says Byron. “I couldn’t be happier. Thank you.” Saskatchewan, is at the center of these issues, working from the community level to provide support services to those who need it.

Carmichael Outreach has collaborated with the Neil Squire Society to empower one particular participant who faced an uphill struggle to employment. Byron came to the Neil Squire Society in hopes of securing employment and learning the skills needed to succeed.

Byron suffers from PTSD and anxiety, had no resume or cover letter, and did not know how to effectively search for employment. He worked very hard to learn new skills during the program and to craft a marketable resume drawing on his transferable skills. By the end, Byron had gained some confidence and self-esteem and was ready to apply for jobs. With the help of his job developer, Byron approached Carmichael Outreach as a potential employer.

Carmichael Outreach was able to hire Byron as the Assistant of Programs and Operations thanks to the 29 | WORKING TOGETHER SUCCESS STORIES

The Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce Finds the Perfect Match with Working Together Penticton, BC

PENTICTON, BC — The Penticton & Wine Country taught us more than we taught him. [. . .] He proved to Chamber of Commerce were preparing to move be a very valuable employee to our team.” their office to a new location, but with only four staff For Ben, it was a chance to get some valuable on- members who have the responsibility of serving 570 the-job experience — while getting paid, of course. chamber members, they couldn’t afford to spend all “I have something to put on my resume, [it] gave me their time preparing for the big move. They needed more confidence to work in the future,” Ben says. an extra staff member. Brandy doesn’t hesitate when asked what she would tell other businesses about the Working Together Brandy Maslowski, the Executive Director, decided program. to turn to the Neil Squire Society’s Working Together program to fill the role — she had heard “I would absolutely recommend this program to other of the organization while building connections with businesses. No question,” she says. the community. Meanwhile, Ben was looking for employment. He has autism and little prior work experience.

“[It’s] hard to understand social situations, organizing my time [is a challenge],” he explains. It turned out to be a perfect fit. With the help of the Working Together wage subsidy, the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce was able to hire Ben.

“We would not have had a summer student if it were not for the wage subsidy program,” Brandy explains. “Ben single-handedly packed up our entire office for the relocation over the summer and then unpacked it in the new location."

“Ben was sincerely a bright addition to our office. He added charm, a hilarious, open attitude and actually 30 | TECH@WORK SUCCESS STORIES

Rahul Finds “Absolute Freedom” Through Technology@Work Solution

BRITISH COLUMBIA — “It’s absolute freedom,” “I was diagnosed almost to the day I became a partner Rahul Ray says about the hand controls installed in at my firm. I asked what I am I supposed to do with this his car with funding through the Neil Squire Society’s MS thing? Can I keep on working? After some research, Technology@Work program. I decided to stick with it, and became a leader and eventual owner of my company.” Rahul was a partner at an environmental consulting firm ten years ago when he woke up with his right Rahul has maintained his positive approach to life, calf numb. A high level soccer player for many years, but has been forced to find solutions to undertake at first it seemed like it might just be a pinched his work. His environmental planning role involves nerve. But a few months later, he was diagnosed with working with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Multiple Sclerosis (MS). communities across western Canada — a lot of driving for Rahul, who is based in Victoria. Over the past few years, his MS, which affects his mobility in the lower body, made it increasingly difficult for him to drive a traditional vehicle.

“It was becoming a barrier for me,” he says. “A physical one, but also a mental one where I was dreading travel, something I’ve always loved to do. In my whole life, I have never said, ‘No, I can’t do that.’ I just wanted to find out if there was another way to drive.”

Fortunately, he did find another way — hand controls. Instead of using his feet to control acceleration and braking, with a modified set-up in his vehicle, he can drive using his hands. Rahul signed up for driver training at Access Driver Rehabilitation and found quick results.

“I went to driving school all over again. I’ve been driving cars and motorcycles for probably 25 years, but it’s different with hand controls,” he says. “Not difficult, just different.” After two weekend days of training with Dean, from Access, “on the Monday morning I 31 | TECH@WORK SUCCESS STORIES

retook my driving test using the modified car I learned his own company, Springboard Strategies Ltd. on. I passed with flying colours and high-fived the focused on environmental planning as well as career 16-year-old drivers who were also taking their driving development for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal test,” he says with a laugh. people, including those facing some form of disability. His goal is to help people find their career “Driving with hand controls is different than driving passion to live the best life they can. Now, as a board with your feet, but six months later, it’s like I’ve been member of the MS Society on Vancouver Island, he driving with hand controls for all of my 25 years of wants to spread the word about the Technology@ driving.” Work program and how it dramatically improved his life. It was during his training at Access Driver Rehabilitation that he was referred to the “I can jump in my car and go absolutely anywhere Technology@Work program to fund his training and I want,” he says. “I don’t have to think twice about the equipment for his work vehicle. saying, ‘yeah, I’ll be at that meeting’ or ‘hey, I’ll come “[The Neil Squire Society] were just absolutely see you guys in the community.’ It’s not even a amazing. They made the whole process easy. For consideration anymore. Before it was, ‘I’m not sure, can most people that’ll be joining the program, or trying we do it by teleconference, maybe by email.” to seek funding, they’re going to be nervous, because Being able to continue to drive also allows the it’s something new for them. Katrina was fantastic. All freedom to go camping or take road trips with his of the staff I met have been amazing. They made the wife Cathy, and his little ones, Daniel, Lily, and Maya. process really easy and very comfortable. Change is “Having MS has made life different than I envisioned, hard, but working with Neil Squire helped smooth the but I dare say richer and more rewarding. I had to retire transition,” he explains. from soccer, but it turns out I’m a pretty good coach.”

It couldn’t come at a better time for Rahul, either. Rahul was featured in a video about the Technology@ Looking for a change in his working career, he left Work program. Watch it here: https://youtu. the firm that he helped build. “Through mergers be/4rHLfgYiSck and acquisitions, the place I worked grew from 10 people to 500 to 26,000 people”. Rahul has opened 32 | TECH@WORK SUCCESS STORIES

Ean Continues to Make a Difference with Technology@Work

BRITISH COLUMBIA — A web designer, inventor, With so many projects, Ean is a busy man. entrepreneur, advocate, and much more, Ean is a However, he needed a tablet to communicate his man of many talents. His company, ICAN Resource ideas to clients, as well as a Bluetooth module to Group Inc., is just as diverse, with services ranging interface the tablet with his chair. from medical assistive technology to multimedia development. “Without the tablet and module, I was unable to cover relevant materials,” he explains. “To maintain self- employment, I urgently required [it].”

As the Disabled Sailing Association of Kelowna’s President and the Tetra Society’s Kelowna chapter coordinator, he discovered the Neil Squire Society at an SCI-BC conference in Vancouver. The Neil Squire Society Kelowna office referred him to the Technology@Work program, where he could receive funding for his needed assistive technology. The process was easy.

“It was absolutely wonderful,” Ean says. “I have worked with similar programs in the past. I believe Neil Squire has streamlined the application process and thus able to expedite approvals."

“The Neil Squire team was knowledgeable with an excellent understanding of new technology and what would best suit my needs.” he continues. “They were also very receptive to my suggestions.” Ean has Muscular Dystrophy (SMA Type 2). He requires a power wheelchair and is ventilator dependant. With the help of the Technology@Work program, Ean is able to continue running his own business and Based in Kelowna, BC, Ean is an advocate for continue making a difference. independence through technology. With help from his father, he invented a retractable straw device to remove “Technology@Work has allowed me to continue my saliva from his mouth, as he is unable to swallow. employment.” 33 | TECH@WORK SUCCESS STORIES

Lori Continues to Serve the Community

BRITISH COLUMBIA — For the last 25 years, In the 1980’s, Lori had worked for the Canada Lori has been a tireless advocate and volunteer in Employment and Immigration Commission, and the blind community. Currently the National First while there, with the help of her employer, she had Vice President of the Canadian Council of the Blind, received her first handheld magnifier. However, she has spent much of her life giving back to the with increasing vision loss, she left the job and re- community. located from the Lower Mainland to 100 Mile House, where she began her volunteer work in the blind Born with a genetic condition that affects the retina, community. Lori has had vision loss all of her life. “I’ve always been legally blind my whole life. I’ve always had ten As time went on and as her vision decreased, her percent vision or less,” explains Lori. “I’m down to assistive technology needs evolved. When she could about one percent [vision], I have no sight in my no longer read the telephone book with her handheld right eye whatsoever.” magnifier, she switched to a video magnifier, and then she moved to using more audio-based assistive technologies, such as a screen reader.

More recently, her screen reader had become outdated. Lori became aware of the Neil Squire Society’s Technology@Work program and she applied for assistance.

With funding through Technology@Work, Lori was able to upgrade several pieces of her software, including her screen reader and a scanning program that turns text to speech. “The cost of this equipment is overwhelming, and the average person could never afford this,” Lori says.

In addition to this new software, Technology@Work Occupational Therapists were able to help Lori with a more ergonomic workstation setup, including a new desk and chair, to alleviate the physical pain she was experiencing.

“If you don’t see well, you’re going to strain a lot. I’ve done that my whole life, so I have neck, shoulder 3834 | TECH@WORK SUCCESS STORIES

and back issues,” she explains. “The upgrades work in the community. She wants to continue to to speech, magnification andand scanning scanning software software raise awawarenessareness for programs like Technology@Work programs as well as the ergonomic adjustments to and other programs like Canadian Council of the my workstation have contributed to improving my Blind’s Get Together with Technology. physical health. Headaches, neck, shoulder and back pain have been reduced providing prolonged relief to “The Technology@Work program has given me the the many hours spent at my desk.” opportunity to carry on and be productive, not only for myself, but for others. Without this program, I would Now, Lori can continue her advocacy and volunteer not be able to give back, or contribute.”

Technology@Work Statistics 964 388 275 388 Participants Applicants Needs Signed AT served received determinations Agreements

Clients Who Received Needs Determinations

FIRST HALF OF THE YEAR SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR

Hearing

Low vision

Workstation

W/C acc.

Vehicle mod 35 | COMPUTER COMFORT SUCCESS STORIES

Lily Gets Comfortable on the Computer Again

BRITISH COLUMBIA — As computers become for me to remember everything I was learning,” she more and more integral to our world, the skills notes. “The big challenge was just being able to required to use them have, for many of us, become retain and remember all the things that I was being second nature and something we take for granted. taught.” For Lily, this was not the case, yet she was able to find help through the Neil Squire Society’s Computer But she started to make progress. Lily found a new Comfort program. way of writing notes so that she could understand them later. She found out about speech recognition “I’ve definitely learned a lot,” Lily says. “I’m much software. The thing she’s most proud of though, is better.” being able to do the kinds of tasks that seemed easy before her disability, and help take care of her family. When Lily was diagnosed with a tumour in her liver, she needed a liver transplant. However, it wasn’t “Excel, that’s probably where I’ve come the most. I’ve only her liver that was affected. “The liver being such been able to plan my family’s budget, keep track of an important organ affected all the functions of my expenses, and track how we compare to the last year, body, including my brain,” she explains. “I had a lot so I’m really proud of that.” of cognitive problems in terms of not being able to think clearly, not being able to speak, do anything Now, Lily is thankful for her time in Computer for myself, and just basically becoming completely Comfort. “People who have not considered Neil helpless.” Squire as a source of support, in terms of helping them gain better computer skills, they should This made it incredibly difficult for Lily to use the definitely consider it,” she says. “I think it’s a great computer, and do tasks she once felt were simple. organization.” Her occupational therapist realized that Lily needed a dedicated program to become comfortable on the Watch Lily’s video about her Computer Comfort computer again, and regain her independence. Her experience: https://youtu.be/8e3BG3bn6O0 therapist recommended the Neil Squire Society, where Lily found the Computer Comfort program. “I just wanted to be able to use my computer the way I used to before I became sick,” she says.

She began the program and initially it was quite challenging. “In the beginning it was very difficult 36 | COMPUTER COMFORT SUCCESS STORIES

Zorica Finds an Office Job Thanks to Computer Comfort

BRITISH COLUMBIA — When Zorica, who has a “It was very good having one-on-one help support,” learning disability, came to the Neil Squire Society’s Zorica says. “The way they explained to me things on Computer Comfort program to brush up on her the computer, it worked well.” computer skills, she had a clear goal in mind — to secure a job. Near the end of 2015, she saw a posting on the Community Living BC website for an office assistant “Honest, I knew nothing [about computers],” she job. Zorica took initiative, applied, and got the job. says. “I felt that they were going to expect me to She attributes her success to her time in Computer know how to use a computer.” Comfort.

Zorica knew she would need a good working “[For] anyone that has a developmental disability or knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, any kind of disability, I recommend they go to Neil among other programs. Week after week, she Squire Society and take Computer Comfort,” she received one-on-one instruction, and gradually says. “[They] helped me a lot.” improved her computer skills.

COMPUTER COMFORT STATISTICS COMPUTER REFURBISHING STATISTICS

123 refurbished computers provided to clients 9 participants served

65 computers repaired

2000 tutoring hours Maintained our MAR (Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher) relationship

21 volunteers 2000+ hour of tech support to clients on-site, off-site and remote 37 | COMPUTER COMFORT SUCCESS STORIES

Lorne’s Story: a Computer Comfort Success

BRITISH COLUMBIA — In 2013, Lorne suffered a Special thanks to the wonderful group of Simon fall which resulted in a broken back and severe brain Fraser University students who produced this video trauma. The Neil Squire Society’s Computer Comfort for us. program helped him re-learn how to use a computer and now he gives back to others. Watch Lorne’s Story: https://youtu.be/de1M-CudhGM

Loving to Learn Again

BRITISH COLUMBIA — Trudy didn’t just become “I could go back to the lesson anytime I wanted to on more confident on a computer in the Neil Squire my computer,” Trudy adds, noting that she can still Society’s Distance Computer Comfort program, but access her lessons from Distance Computer Comfort re-ignited a passion for learning. “I learn more,” she anytime she needs them. “I can still do that.” says. “I think it just opened me up and widened the Now with her widened horizons and new found horizon.” confidence on a computer, she is pursuing her interest in digital photography. She came to the Neil Squire Society in May of 2015 wanting to improve her computer skills and “All the things I learned through Neil Squire have really computer literacy. Although she has some sight and pushed that forward.” can see the computer screen, Trudy has had severe vision issues since 1998, and is legally blind. Watch Trudy’s video about her Distance Computer “They were really helpful, patient, trying to help Comfort experience: https://youtu.be/p_CIgIWb6Y4 me with what I needed,” she explains. To make her computer use easier, she uses ZoomText and Kurzweil assistive technologies. 38 | ANNUAL REPORT

STATISTICS 58 participants Distance Computer Comfort Distance 16 Participants Comter Youth Intern Program- Online 251 participants Comort Youth Intern Program - In Person

29 Volunteers 2298.5 1056.25 hours Tutorings Hours 18 AT Youth Interns 1242.25 hours

OUT OF 58 PARTICIPANTS VOLUNTEERS 17 volunteered with Neil Squire for the first time 12 continued to volunteer for us from 2015/2016

Enhanced their (Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, 55 employability Quebec, Nova Scotia, North West Territories) 4 went on to full or part secured further time employment 7 31 11 volunteer positions Provinces and Cities Served moved on to training 10 Territories served 15 and/or education are continuing client activities pairings into 2016/2017 or LEARNING CENTRES are waiting to be paired furthered their with participants 4 citizenship engagement 3 10 Located In Distance Computer Youth Intern secured employment BC, Ontario, Alberta, North Comfort partner sites AT sites 7 West Territories 39 | FOOTPRINTS TO EMPLOYMENT SUCCESS STORIES

Footprints to Employment

BRITISH COLUMBIA — Sometimes the best way to “One thing I’m really proud of with this position was learn is to teach — that’s the lesson Keisha learned as a gentleman in particular who was one of my most a Neil Squire Society youth intern at the Penticton consistent clients, he came every week, sometimes Indian Band’s Footprints to Technology Centre. twice a week, he was here for at least two hours each time. He went from knowing absolutely nothing about “My experience as a youth intern was quite amazing, computers, not how to turn it on, not how to type, not I really, really loved this job,” says Keisha. “I learned how to use a mouse. He started typing at three words quite a few new skills.” per minute,” she explains. By the end, “he was able to create his own Facebook and emailed his niece Keisha, who is Aboriginal and a member of the regularly, at least once a week, shared pictures with Penticton Indian Band, initially thought the her.” internship would deal more with the tech side, but with a teaching background, it made sense to focus “Seeing him going from absolutely nothing to knowing on the one-on-one Computer Comfort tutoring, an all these things on his own and being so independent experience she found immensely rewarding. on the computer was really, really amazing to watch, 40 | COMPUTER COMFORT SUCCESS STORIES

and I was so glad I got to be a part of that experience Crew Leader for the Penticton Indian Band Reserve, with him.” a full time position. She got it.

But her students weren’t the only ones learning. Now, Keisha attributes her success to her time spent Keisha admits that the internship helped her grow at Footprints to Technology, and says that the Youth a wide variety of skills, including public speaking. Internship program has influenced her career path. “When I do speak in public, I generally talk quite fast, and I speed through a lot of things and miss a lot “I loved having this job, I’ve learned so much and of key points,” she says. “Working with this job and created so many relationships with different people. I having to have patience with talking to my clients and loved being back in a teaching environment, helping going through things slowly and going through things people learn new things and watching them grow. over and over again really did improve on my public Thank you for this opportunity.” speaking.” Watch Keisha’s video about her intern experience: While she was working in the Youth Internship, she https://youtu.be/ybf9UREaKwY applied for a job with Statistics Canada as a Census

This year, as part of the Industry Canada Youth Internship Program, Neil Squire Society and its partner organizations took on a total of 18 Assistive Technology youth interns, who were situated as in the following partner locations:

251 1242.25 18 Participants Tutored Hours of Client Tutoring AT Youth Interns From September 1, 2016 to (locally & online) With 7 interns in BC who interacted March 31, 2017 with 107 participants and completed 732 hours of tutoring (locally & online) 41 | ANNUAL REPORT

Government Funders

Opportunities Fund, Employment and Social Development Canada Government of Canada

Office of Disability Issues, Employment and Social Development Canada Government of Canada

Service Canada Government of Canada

Social Development Partnership Programs – Disability Component, Employment and Social Development Canada Government of Canada

Canada Summer Jobs, Employment and Social Development Canada Government of Canada

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada Government of Canada

Community Gaming Grant, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General Government of British Columbia

Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training Government of British Columbia

Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation Government of British Columbia

WorkSafe BC

Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Government of New Brunswick

Department of Education and Early Childhood Development Government of New Brunswick

Social Development Government of New Brunswick

WorkSafe NB

Ministry of Economy Government of Saskatchewan 42 | ANNUAL REPORT

Major Donors Donors

Google.org Myrna Anderson Knights of Malta

Rick Hansen Institute Rob Attwell Rachin Kumar SpencerCreo Foundation Kaila Bertoia Nikki Langdon Social Research and Demonstration Corporation

TD Canada Trust Lindsey Bertrand Mary Frances Laughton

Vancouver Foundation Gary Birch Chad Leaman Great-West Life, London Life and Canada Life

Victoria Foundation Kenneth Birch Derek Lefreniere

Jones Lange Lasalle Real Estate Margaret Cameron Charles Levasseur Coast Capital Savings Credit Union Croft and Louise Carlsen Stephen Ly BC Innovation Council

RBC Foundation Robert Coard Kenneth Ngai

Kaatza Foundation Geordie Cree Olympic Industries Inc. Marketwired L.P. Tim Creech Greg Pyc Vancity

Hamber Foundation Dragon Household Munesh Raman

Andrew Mahon Foundation Elizabeth Dyer Seaver Stafford Simon Fraser University

Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Fritz Engel June Suomalainen British Columbia Gordon Flaade Ron Taylor Don Danbrook

De Bosch Kemper Household ILLAHIE Foundation Nate Toevs

Lee and Joan Hanson Beverly Grasse Elijah van der Giessen Christine Preto Pamela Hanson George and Winifred Black Tim Sader Legacy Fund & Kermit and Anonymous Yasmin Juma Theo Legacy Fund 43 | ANNUAL REPORT

Statement of Financial Positions

(As at March 31, 2017)

ASSETS Current 2017 2016 Cash $ — $ 307,634 Restricted cash 135,000 168,750 Accounts receivable 1,112,104 774,161 Prepaid expenses 89,949 91,206 1,337,053 1,341,751 Capital assets 66,113 73,811 1,403,166 1,415,562

LIABILITIES Current 2017 2016 Cheques issued in excess on funds on deposit $ 52,151 $ — Bank debt 165,000 — Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 696,635 532,402 Deferred revenue 337,838 736,206 Total liabilities 1,251,624 1,268,608 Net assets 151,542 146,954 1,403,166 1,415,562

Extracted from the complete Audited Financial Statements. Complete Audited Financial Statements are available through the Burnaby Office. 44 | ANNUAL REPORT

Statement of Financial Positions (Year ended March 31, 2017)

REVENUE 2017 2016 Contracts - Federal $ 4,605,400 $ 2,182,106 - Provincial 1,203,339 1,464,153 - other 870,428 699,087 Services and training fees 2,201,298 1,870,280 Recoverable client equipment 1,344,430 1,173,546 Gaming 135,000 135,000 Donations - cash 33,834 42,405 - in kind 43,713 34,106 Interest and other 13,332 6,917 10,450,774 7,607,600

EXPENSES 2017 2016 Salaries and benefits $ 5,346,927 $ 4,292,495 Wage subsidies 1,405,928 135,435 Recoverable client equipment 1,031,917 1,106,120 Rent 591,199 510,015 Client tuitions 431,255 253,381 Consulting and contracts 383,462 196,999 Equipment, lease and maintenance - expenditures 349,627 258,938 - in kind 43,713 34,106 General and administrative 293,680 310,015 Travel 269,587 241,480 Material and supplies 169,916 102,922 Marketing and program development 93,244 104,742 10,410,455 7,546,648 Revenue over expenses before other item 40,319 60,952 Other item Amortization of capital assets (35,731) (78,353) Write off of leasehold improvements — (158,632) Revenue over (under) expenses for the year 4,588 (176,033)

Extracted from the complete Audited Financial Statements. Complete Audited Financial Statements are available through the Burnaby Office. 45 | ANNUAL REPORT

Board and Committee Members

BOARD MEMBERS AUDIT AND FINANCIAL FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE Drew Collier, Chair MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Brian Pritchard , Chair Geordie Cree, Vice Chair Robert Coard, Chair Drew Collier Robert Coard, Treasurer Don Danbrook Judy Hutchins Marie Burgoyne, Secretary Gary Birch (ex officio) Gary Birch (ex officio) Don Danbrook, Member Greg Pyc (ex officio) Chad Leaman (ex officio) Laurie Hill, Member Ron T aylor (ex officio) Judith Hutchins, Member Brian Pritchard, Member MARKETING COMMITTEE TECHNOLOGY AND Judy Hutchins, Chair PARTNERSHIPS COMMITTEE EXECUTIVE MEMBERS Gary Birch (ex officio) Drew Collier, Chair Gary Birch, OC, PhD, P.Eng., Executive Director Chris Back Geordie Cree Greg Pyc, National Operations Manager Suzanne Wiens (ex officio) Gary Birch (ex officio) Asa Zanatta Rob Attwell Jaimie Borisoff MANAGEMENT TEAM Roger Jones Greg Pyc, BC Regional Manager CLIENT SERVICES Nikki Langdon, Prairie Regional Manager COMMITTEE Cheryl Colmer, Central Regional Manager Geordie Cree, Chair Beverly Grasse, Atlantic Regional Manager Laurie Hill Charles Levasseur, Atlantic Regional Manager Marie Burgoyne Sara Bains, Director of Employment Programs Gary Birch (ex officio) Chad Leaman, Director of Development Cheryl Colmer (ex officio) Suzanne Wiens, Director of Communications Harry Lew, Research & Development Manager Ron Taylor, Director of Finance Kelvin Leong, National IT Manager www.neilsquire.ca Charitable Tax # 864366174 RR0001

Head Office & Western Regional Office Prairie Regional Office Central Regional Office Atlantic Regional Office 400 – 3999 Henning Drive 201 – 2206 Dewdney Avenue 150 – 34 Colonnade Road 104 – 440 Wilsey Road Burnaby, BC V5C 6P9 Regina, SK S4R 1H3 Ottawa, ON K2E 7J6 , NB E3B 7G5 T 604.473.9363 T 306.781.6023 T 613.723.3575 T 506.450.7999 F 604.473.9364 F 306.522.9474 F 613.723.3579 F 506.453.9681 Toll Free 1.877.673.4636